Tension Headache :- What Is Tension Headache, Its Symptoms And Treatments

Tension headaches are included in the primary division of headaches, which are caused by an alteration in neuronal function. This group also includes migraine, cluster headaches, and trigeminovascular headaches, among others.

This type of headache occurs when the muscles in the neck and scalp tighten or contract. The contraction can be a response to stress, depression, anxiety, or head trauma.

The Mayo Clinic website adds that alcohol consumption, eye strain, excessive cigarette smoking, and fatigue or exertion can also contribute to the onset of tension headaches.

This headache is divided into episodic tension headaches, which can last from half an hour to seven days and are relieved by taking an over-the-counter painkiller; and chronic tension headaches, which are more frequent and occur for 15 or more days over three months. In other words, they are more constant.

“Unlike migraine headaches, tension headaches are not accompanied by nausea or vomiting and are not aggravated by physical activity or odors,” reads the MSD Manual. Some triggers for this condition are also: sleep disorders, stress, neck pain, eye strain, and temporomandibular joint dysfunction.

Although it can occur at any age, it is more common in teenagers and adults. Studies have identified that women are more likely to suffer from tension headaches and, in some cases, it can be hereditary, according to Carlos Rodriguez, a general practitioner.

Tension Headache Symptoms

“It is characterized by pain in the forehead, which extends to the temporal region, to the temple on both sides. Some people may have pain in the back of the head, but it is most common in the forehead,” explains neurologist Victor Arevalo.

He adds that this discomfort is described as a dull pain. That is, it is continuous and does not improve. It occurs for long periods. Sometimes, but rarely, it can cause discomfort to light or sound, but not to both.

Many people describe tension headaches as a tight band or pressure around the head. They don’t feel it just on one side, but all over the skull. Sufferers try to relieve the pain by massaging their scalp, temples, or the back of the neck.

Treatment of tension headache

The diagnosis of tension headache is based on characteristic symptoms and a normal physical examination, including a neurological examination. Potential triggers should be identified and treated.

The treatment for this type of headache is with over-the-counter painkillers, such as aspirin, ibuprofen, or paracetamol, especially in the case of mild or moderate tension headaches.

Another way to treat tension headaches is by changing your lifestyle. For example, prioritizing your sleep hours, eating at the right times, staying hydrated, learning to manage stress, and avoiding being overweight, says Arévalo. Giving massages to relax and applying cold or hot compresses could also help to soothe the pain.

It is important to consult a doctor if you experience the “worst headache of your life” or have problems with speech, vision, loss of balance, nausea, vomiting, or fever, as this could be a symptom of a more serious illness. Rodriguez adds that if the headache does not subside with any medication, it is also important to seek help.